The Sisters

In Jensen’s debut novel, set during the Great Depression, two sisters, Mabel and Bertie Fisher, suffer under the tyrannical rule of their abusive stepfather. In an effort to start a new life, Mabel secretly concocts an escape plan with the help of Bertie’s boyfriend. But things go wrong and Mabel and her sister are separated. Cassandra Campbell’s narration is warm, rich, and a pleasure to listen to. She creates distinctive voices for all the characters, and her tone conveys deep empathy and compassion. Campbell is even able to make the stepfather—who is evil and wholly unsympathetic—believable and authentic, his voice tough and hard, yet laden with the frustrations and disappointments of his own life. Additionally, Campbell lends voices to the book’s numerous children and grandchildren that reflect their separate personalities and dreams. A St. Martin’s hardcover. (Nov.)